Report: Morris Claiborne leaving LSU for NFL

LSU’s chances of returning to the national championship game took a major hit Thursday if reports are true that All-American cornerback Morris Claiborne has decided to leave school early for the NFL.

According to The Associated Press which is has several sources saying the junior is taking his game to the pros. LSU has scheduled a press conference for Thursday afternoon with Les Miles.

Claiborne, who won the Jim Thorpe Award as the nation’s top defensive back, led LSU with six interceptions including one for a touchdown.

He led the team in kickoff returns, averaging 25 yards per return.

He is considered to be a top 10 pick in the NFL Draft in April.

His departure leaves a huge hole to replace on the LSU defense. The Tigers had the No. 2 defense in the country behind Alabama. As a team, LSU was sixth in the country in passing defense including 18 interceptions.

Underclassmen have until Sunday to declare for the NFL Draft.

Here is the growing list of underclassmen who have declared for the draft: